Processing Times

It is necessary to book an appointment for an interview at the VFS centres in London, Manchester and Edinburgh, and you may have to wait several weeks for an available appointment slot for an interview.

Visa applications take 15 calendar days to process calculated from the date when the application is received at the Embassy. Please note that for applications handed in in Manchester or Edinburgh this date is usually 3-4 working days after the application date. Applications handed in in London are usually received at the Embassy the next working day.

Some nationals are subject to prior consultation in one of more Schengen countries, before a visa can be issued. The consultation takes around 8-10 days. Please see the list of countries.

Some applications may require further processing, which could take from 30-60 days.

Please note that all applications are processed individually. The Visa Officer may request further documentation or information, which can prolong the processing time.

If the application for a visa has been refused, the applicant has the right to appeal the decision.

Holders of a Schengen visa are still subject to immigration control and are not guaranteed entry into any of the Schengen countries, even though they may hold a valid visa for these countries.